‘Never Run From a Fight’: Accused War Criminal Roberts-Smith Vows to Clear Name

In his first public statement since his highly publicised arrest, the Victoria Cross recipient struck a defiant tone.

A street mural by artist Jarrod Grech shows former Australian SAS soldier Ben Roberts-Smith, in Melbourne, Australia on April 17, 2026. William West/AFP via Getty Images

Decorated veteran Ben Roberts-Smith has vowed to use his upcoming criminal trial on allegations of war crimes to clear his name.

In his first public statement since his highly publicised arrest, the Victoria Cross recipient struck a defiant tone as he pledged to fight the charges against him.